Date:  11 July 2017

If you are going to Tongariro National Park to see and play in the snow this winter please help the environment by using a transport shuttle.

“We welcome you to the Tongariro National Park. There is plently of space for both our native wildlife - kiwis, whio, insects and our skiers, hikers and bikers, but we don’t have unlimited space for lots and lots of cars, vans and campervans says Bhrent Guy, DOC Operations Manager, Tongariro District.

Plan ahead and use a shuttle from local villages; National Park, Turangi/Taupō, Ohakune and Raetihi. Map of transport hubs to Tongariro National Park (PDF, 736K)

This winter season, the Department of Conservation is encouraging all visitors to use shuttles. Car parking at Whakapapa Village is limited. Visitors are also warned this year there is no chainfitting service in Whakapapa Village, another good reason to use a shuttle.

The Department is working in partnership with the New Zealand Transport Agency, Ruapehu District Council, the NZ Police and their highway patrol division this winter season.

“This winter we need visitors to use shuttles so they can be safe and not worry about icy road conditions on the way back down the hill so they can make the most of their day” says Ross I'Anson, Highway Manager, NZ Transport Agency.   

Visitors who are looking forward to visiting the snow will need to plan ahead to avoid disappointment, the best way is to use transp;ort shuttles to travel to and from Mt Ruapehu. 

To plan ahead and reserve a shuttle, please contact the friendly i-site staff who have local knowledge.

More information

The Department takes this opportunity to encourage safe alpine adventures:

• Weather information for Tongariro National Park on MetService
• New Zealand Mountain Safety Council Outdoor Safety Code and Oudoor Safety Code video

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